1 September 2005

Australia Offers Support for the United States in the Wake of Hurricane Katrina

Media release

THE HON ALEXANDER DOWNER MP, MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS
THE HON PHILIP RUDDOCK MP, ATTORNEY GENERAL

The Australian Government has offered to make available to the United States two specialist emergency managers to assist with the community recovery phase of the response to the natural disaster which has engulfed the Gulf Coast in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

The Australian Government stands ready to provide further assistance if requested.

This devastating natural disaster has taken lives, left communities submerged and destroyed infrastructure. More than 78,000 people have sought refuge in shelters, with many more displaced. The city of New Orleans has been particularly hard hit, with about 80 percent of the city under water.

The impact of Hurricane Katrina will be felt for months and years, as the residents of the Gulf Coast face the task of rebuilding their homes, their businesses and their lives. The Prime Minister has extended the nation's condolences to the President and people of the United States.

The US Administration has set out the priorities of saving lives, sustaining lives and executing a comprehensive recovery effort. The two Australian specialists, from Emergency Management Australia, have significant expertise in the area of community recovery following disasters and would be able to help US officials assess priority community needs. EMA staff have worked with Indonesian officials following the Boxing Day tsunami and are very familiar with the pressure on communities following major urban disasters.

Emergency Management Australia has strong links with the US Federal Emergency Management Agency, which is leading the Federal response in the United States to the disaster.

Australians wishing to make a donation to the victims of Hurricane Katrina can contact the Australian Red Cross (1800 811 700).

Australians concerned about family and friends in the region can register their details with DFAT on the special hotline number 1800 00 22 14.

Media inquiries : (Minister Downer) 02 6277 7500